Zhao Xintong entered Ronnie O’Sullivan’s dressing room after their outstanding semi-final on the World Snooker Championship to thank his idol for his help.
O’Sullivan hoped to make historical past on the Crucible this 12 months with a document eighth world title, however Zhao made brief work of their contest, winning 17-7 with a session to spare.
The 28-year-old sensation received the UK Championship in 2021 earlier than his profession was derailed by his involvement in the Chinese betting scandal, which resulted in a two-year ban from the game. He returned to the game in September and has made a formidable comeback, topped by this run to the World Championship last after making his approach by way of qualifying.
After main 12-4 in a single day, Zhao duly wrapped issues as much as grow to be solely the second Asian finalist after compatriot Ding Junhui, who misplaced to Mark Selby, in 2016.
“I can’t imagine that. I have to say thanks to Ronnie as a result of he has helped me rather a lot earlier than. He’s my idol,” Zhao stated. “Typically the group is useful for Ronnie and he deserves that, he’s a legend right here so I wanted to manage myself.”
The Sheffield academy the place Zhao developed his recreation posted an image on social media of the pair embracing, and wrote: “Straight after the match Xintong went to Ronnie’s dressing room. He thanked him for his assist and help, with out which he wouldn’t have gotten to the ultimate so shortly.”
Zhao will play both Mark Williams or Judd Trump in the final, which is able to start on Sunday and conclude on Monday.
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